Why Your Strengths Aren't Serving You Anymore
Back in the past, during a pivotal moment in my career, I was fortunate enough to be acquainted with a book called StrengthsFinder.
It happened at a time when my self-assurance was waning, and the mere title of this book filled me with anticipation.
Driven by my excitement, I hurriedly made my way to Barnes and Noble and wasted no time in acquiring it.
I had set my sights on reading it while basking on a sunny beach in Mexico during our upcoming vacation.
The book, StrengthsFinder, left an indelible mark on me.
Discovering that my top strength was Achiever filled me with inspiration and joy.
Known for my enthusiasm, whenever I stumble upon something exciting, I can't help but share it with everyone I know, as if I were the sole inventor.
Embracing my true nature, I eagerly approached each manager, urging them to read the book.
Most people I spoke to about StrengthsFinder shared my enthusiasm.
However, when I mentioned it to my boss at the time, their response caught me off guard.
"You are reading a fucking self-help book?" they exclaimed dismissively.
At that moment, I realized that my values didn't align with the company I was working for. It served as a stark reminder that it was time for me to seek new opportunities elsewhere.
Embracing the role of an achiever brought me immense satisfaction.
Crafting lists to tackle daily tasks, both in my professional and personal life, filled me with joy and a sense of accomplishment.
With each item I crossed off those lists, I felt a surge of momentum propelling me forward.
For a decade, I held onto the belief that this strength defined a significant part of my identity and fueled my career progression.
Undoubtedly, it did contribute to my success.
However, my journey into coaching training unveiled a deeper truth – as an achiever, or more accurately, a hyper achiever, this very trait has also been a hindrance in various aspects of my life.
What's a Hyper-Achiever?
According to Positive Intelligence, a Hyper-Achiever is a Saboteur that is dependent on constant performance and achievement for self-respect and validation.
Someone who is highly focused on external success, leading to unsustainable workaholic tendencies and loss of touch with deeper emotional and relationship needs.
How has this made me successful?
It’s made me competitive
It’s kept me positive in front of my team when times are tough
It’s helped me be goal-oriented
How has this held me back?
It’s made my self-acceptance conditional based on achievement
It has stopped me from taking time to celebrate my accomplishments
I’ve lost touch with my deeper feelings and ability to connect deeply with others
Becoming aware of my saboteur was a turning point in my life.
I learned to recognize its presence in my thoughts and understand how it influenced me.
This newfound self-awareness allowed me to make conscious choices and challenge the validity of those thoughts.
As a result, I discovered the importance of slowing down, deepening my relationships, and enjoying the process of each task.
By embracing curiosity and continuous improvement, I have experienced a profound transformation in my life.
How can you manage your Saboteurs?
Take this assessment to find out your top 3 Saboteurs.
Read the descriptions and let them sit with you for a few days.
Know that these are (only) thoughts and not facts.
Understand that these thoughts were formed early in your childhood and that you no longer need them in your adult life.
Start recognizing these thoughts when they occur and determine how you want to act on them.
Take 6 deep breaths when the thoughts arise to take you out of that moment and give you clarity on your next decision.
Discovering and managing our saboteurs is paramount to living a fulfilled life.
Click here to start learning how to manage your saboteurs.
Through self-awareness and introspection, we can challenge and reframe limiting thoughts, fostering personal growth and resilience.
By making conscious choices and cultivating positive mindsets, we unlock the joy of the journey, deepen relationships, and embrace continuous improvement.
It is through this transformative process that we create a life filled with authenticity, fulfillment, and boundless potential.
Share this blog with one person you know who would like to develop their strengths.
Take the tiny first step in developing your strengths now.
Christin
